The rise of the esports scene has been swift, transforming casual gamers into bona fide professionals with storied careers. The esports talent pipeline is the path that allows gamers to transition from playing for fun to playing for pay. It’s not as clear a road as traditional sports, but it’s beginning to get more structured and more available.
The vast majority of pro gamers start as casual video game fans. It typically begins with popular games like League of Legends, Counter-Strike, or Clash Royale. They are often involved in competing in local events or online tournaments to become more experienced with the game. These smaller tournaments are vital as players establish their reputation and try to stand out to esports organisations.
Those who fall into the esports talent pipeline will need to play and hone their skills. Viewers flock to platforms like Twitch, and becoming active in the gaming community on social media is crucial as well. This can help players continue to build and retain followers and to catch the attention of scouts or teams. In contrast to traditional games, the number of followers a player has is just as important as their skill in esports recruitment.
Some companies and organisations have begun to create amateur leagues and club teams, like the kind that have long existed in the world of traditional sports. For example, Super League Gaming runs city-based club teams and tournaments for games including Minecraft and League of Legends. These clubs offer a successful playing culture and a programme that allows players to compete regularly and hone their skills in a team environment.
If a player is successful in their amateur league and gains enough traction, an organisation can pick them up. Professional teams often maintain a training house where players live and train together full-time. These squads play in big-money tournaments in front of massive audiences around the world. For example, organisations like Dignitas scour amateur leagues and even check social media for talent in search of new players.
High schools and colleges are jumping into the trend with esports programmes and competitions. Companies like PlayVS partner with schools to establish esports teams and leagues. These programmes provide a means for young players to compete in a controlled environment while also completing their education. Some game publishers, such as Blizzard and Riot Games, operate sanctioned talent pipelines, in which competitions are organised to identify and develop future pros.
The casual gamer is transforming into the esports professional through practice, competition, and exposure. Amateur leagues, school programmes and social media all lend a huge hand to players coming up.
As esports grows, so does the interest in e-sports betting sites. These are the sites that let fans wager on matches and tournaments, making viewing a whole lot more interesting. The competitive worlds of CS:GO, Dota 2 and League of Legends is featured on all major esports betting sites. Their odds are competitive, and they also offer live betting, which is perfect for keeping the game interesting for fans and allowing the sport to expand.
Players must be 21 years of age or older or reach the minimum age for gambling in their respective state and located in jurisdictions where online gambling is legal. Please play responsibly. Bet with your head, not over it. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, and wants help, call or visit: (a) the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey at 1-800-Gambler or www.800gambler.org; or (b) Gamblers Anonymous at 855-2-CALL-GA or www.gamblersanonymous.org.
